Learning mechanics of materials by doing models

Abstract

[EN] Mechanics of Materials is a discipline taught to the second-year students in the Bachelor Degree of Mechanical Engineering at Universitat Politècnica de València, Alcoi Campus. The teaching-learning process is focused on three main aspects: theory, practice, and numerical simulations. There are several experiments designed to better understand the mechanical behaviour of the materials that are present in buildings and machines. This paper explains the application of another hands-on methodology that has been included in the course. It consists of completing the process by constructing or prototyping scale models which help the students to understand how the structures work in real life. The results of the experience allow us to consider that learning by doing has supposed a significant step in the comprehension of the Mechanics of Materials and the students have showed a positive attitude towards this activity. Not only by constructing models, but the fact that their construction is blended with other active methodologies, contribute to enhance the motivation in learning the subject.